Entry for April 21, 2007

I am now about to become immersed in the world of children's shows. I am directing a sketch show for kids which has been brillantly titled "Sketchy!". I know. I know. It might be a bit obscure, but just in case the public does not twig, we are giving it a byline - "Sketchy! Comedy Sketches for Kids!" Clever huh? That'll save any confusion, amongst anyone who thought it was a life drawing class. Or indeed any dislexycs who thought it was the Monday morning meeting of Scottish Slimmers.
I think this is the first time I've directed a kids' show since I did some pantomimes years ago, and I'm rather looking forward to the prospect. This is in spite of the fact that directing these shows can give you a migraine - think of all the bright colours, the snappy pace and actors saying "Ooooh look at me shaking me bum, aren't I hysterically amusing" - the whole experience is a bit like eating too many red smarties.
However, it will give me the opportunity to block in bits where the actors will get covered in custard pies. They may complain but I can point out it is all in the name of art. Oh yes - it is not about humiliating the actors, and whispering to them as they are about to go on stage: "Three years at drama college and now here you are prostituting youseslf with the infamous "jelly down the trousers" gag, you attention-seeking spotlight whore. Was it worth it? Hmmm? I bet you regret asking me what your motivation was when we did the Scottish Play now. Oh...and break a leg".